This Summer, Empower Your Teen for College with Leadership Skills

Summer naturally includes flip-flops, riding waves and ice cream delights. It's also the perfect time for teens to polish their social skills as they look forward to transitioning to college and beyond. Many students are underprepared to showcase their accomplishments and goals and lack the leadership abilities our society values.

However, summer provides a great time for students to hone these valuable life skills in a relaxed environment—before the crush of fall stresses. Here are three tips that will help students as they prepare for school visits, interviews and college life.

1) Learn the Ingredients to a Great Introduction

Parents, be a great role model and simultaneously encourage your children to begin each day with a smile and take time to greet family, friends and random people the same—whether you pass on the boardwalk, beach path or at mini golf. Make eye contact, smile, use good posture and greet them enthusiastically, "Good morning! How are you?" These simple gestures make life more enjoyable and are the foundation for every great relationship.

WHY? This fall when students head off for college school visits these basic skills help students gain the confidence to ask important questions and gather valuable information about a school: their students, programs and culture. 

2) Learn to Define Your Brand Through a Summer Job

Whether you scoop ice cream, babysit or wash dishes, each part-time employee is a part of a team and serves an integral function for success. Ultimately, how you perform your job determines how prosperous you and the company will be. Remember, you are not only representing the company's brand—you are defining your personal brand. Don't drop the ball: Show up on time, look clean and presentable, don't use earphones or spend the day texting, and ask if there are additional responsibilities you can take on.

WHY? Life’s a stage and your daily words and actions define you. Whether you are at work, interviewing for admission to a school, or applying for an intern or volunteer position, the everyday etiquette habits you develop translate into everything you do and hope to achieve.

3) Volunteer

Step into someone else's shoes for several hours or days this summer and expand your empathy, respect and compassion for others. It can be challenging to slow down and consider others in our fast-paced, technologically driven world. Individuals who contemplate the needs, thoughts and feelings of others are ultimately successful in life.

WHY? Throughout the school application process, you will need advice, guidance and help from others. Take time to express your gratitude and acknowledge that you recognize the time and effort they dedicated to assist you. You never know when you may need their help again.

Hillary Brennan is the director of Socially Savvy. For more information, visit www.sociallysavvynj.com or call 609-932-2296.